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Top 10 movies worth seeing

Silver Linings Playbook: It is difficult to describe why "Silver Linings Playbook" is such a perfect movie. The film is a sort of crossbreed of genres that finds a way to be romantic, moving, dramatic and laugh-out-loud funny all at the same time. The story is gripping and the characters are unique and well acted. Jennifer Lawrence is a movie star in every sense of the word. After finding success in "The Hunger Games," she is back with the character Tiffany, a sassy, rude, yet lovable romantic interest for Pat, Bradley Cooper's equally complicated character. The film is emotionally complex and as the film progresses, I was reminded of why I am such an avid movie fan. "Silver Linings Playbook" is an indescribably perfect film that stands out as 2012's best. Cinematic perfection. -- Connor Smith

Django Unchained: Quentin Tarantino is one of the most prolific and creative writers working in the field today. He takes simple ideas and turns them into complex, unpredictable, and relentlessly controversial affairs. In his latest, he takes the issue of slavery and shapes it into a revenge and rescue tale where a slave goes head to head with a notorious plantation owner. The film is brilliantly written and full of life due to performances from Christoph Waltz and Leonardo DiCaprio. "Django Unchained" is Tarantino at his finest. -- Connor Smith

Skyfall: "Skyfall" is the James Bond film I have been waiting to see for years. After Craig's sophomore slump "Quantum of Solace," he is back in full form with "Skyfall." The amazing thing about this movie is that it examines the Bond saga as a whole while also stepping into new ground. The films ending connects 21st century Bond to the original Sean Connery films and boy, is it satisfying. Also, after seven Bond films, it is nice for Judi Dench to finally have her time to shine. And, I applaud Javier Bardem for being the most hilariously provocative Bond villain of all time. -- Connor Smith

Life of Pi: "Life of Pi" is just as much an experience as it is a film. In a way, the film is both a spiritual contemplation as well as a buddy tale. The film follows the relationship between a tiger and a boy who are lost at sea. What it lacks in dialogue it makes up in visual splendor. Ang Lee's direction, the performance from newcomer Suraj Sharma, and the poetic imagery make this one of the best films of the year. Who thought a movie starring a CGI tiger would leave you examining your own life? -- Connor Smith

Argo: "Argo" is the quickest two hours you are likely to spend at the movie theater this year. The film tells the true story of how one CIA worker rescued six Americans from Iran by disguising themselves as filmmakers. The script, direction, and cast are top notch and the films final act is without a doubt the most suspenseful piece of cinema produced this year. -- Connor Smith

Les Misérables: Tom Hooper took a lot of rinks when making "Les Mis," and thankfully, they all pay off splendidly. From the visuals, to the performances, to the source material itself, "Les Misérables" is a musical fan's dream movie. It has been weeks since I saw that film and I still find myself humming "One Day More" and "I Dreamed a Dream," sometimes unknowingly. -- Connor Smith

The Cabin in the Woods: When "Drag me to Hell" was released in 2009, I was in cinematic heaven. "Cabin in the Woods" is in the same line as "Drag me to Hell" in that they both follow an unconventional story. Alongside the clever story come the plethora of demented laughs and twists. "Cabin in the Woods" strays from the usual generic formula, which is why many people refuse to acknowledge its greatness. I applaud Joss Whedon for creating one of the most unpredictable horror films ever. I tip my imaginary hat to you, sir. -- Connor Smith

Amour: A heartbreaking film that follows an old man caring for his dying wife. The performances from Emmanuelle Riva and Jean-Louis Trintignant are impeccable and the two have wonderful chemistry. As Anne's health slowly diminishes, it becomes all the more evident how strong Georges cares for his wife. Despite the sadness, the film's non-saccharine final moments are poetic and heartfelt. "Amour" beautifully defines the meaning of love, and shows what it means to love another. "Amour" is a film I will not soon forget. -- Connor Smith

Hope Springs: The film was advertised as a goofy romantic comedy that one would watch at 3 a.m. while crying and eating a half-gallon of ice cream. But, at the heart, it's more a romantic drama filled with sporadic comedy. Thanks to a great script and amazing performances from Meryl Streep and Tommy Lee Jones, the film is a thoughtful contemplation on marriage and what happens after the spark disappears. This film is an under seen gem that I recommend to any married couple. Amazing stuff. -- Connor Smith

The Dark Knight Rises: A fitting ending to Christopher Nolan's Batman saga. Loss, the triumph of evil over good, and the necessity of Batman are all themes that are further explored, all with astounding success. The film is epic, satisfying, and poetic and the film's ending is heroic and tear inducing, though not in a way that one would expect. Also, Michael Caine gives a hugely underrated performance as Bruce's butler, Alfred. It may not be as thematically deep as "The Dark Knight," but there is still a lot to love here. -- Connor Smith